Dolly Parton 'threatened to cancel Australian tour over bus ban'

Dolly Parton threatened to cancel her Australian tour following a dispute over her tour bus, it has been reported.

The US country singer, who is scheduled to tour the country in November this year, was allegedly upset when customs officials ruled that the bus was too long, wide and heavy for Australian transport regulations.

The tour's local promoter told The Sunday Telegraph that Parton's US management threatened to cancel the entire trip, saying: "The message was kind of, 'No bus, no tour.'"

After the threat was issued, federal infrastructure and transport minister Anthony Albanese stepped in to give Parton permission to bring the 14m (46ft) bus that she never tours without to Australia.

Albanese said: "This was a practical example of what happens when you have different sets of rules across eight states and territories. Sometimes, rules are there for a reason. But common sense tells you Dolly Parton touring here is good for her fans and the economy."

Following two months of negotiations, transport departments in all states have now cleared the vehicle in time for the concerts.

A statement released by Parton's management read: "Dolly and her people are very pleased to hear the bus is coming and it's all sorted and has promised Minister Albo a huge cuddle when she comes to Australia in November."